So what was the habit Xiao Ya’s mother had pleaded with her to change?

It was the habit of neglecting personal hygiene — especially in:t:imate hygiene.

Xiao Ya was an office employee, constantly busy with work and side gigs. The fast-paced, stressful lifestyle left her exhausted — most days, she would come home and go straight to bed. As a result, she often neglected basic hygiene. Over time, this poor habit made contribution to devastating consequences.

Xiao Ya’s story is not only a personal tragedy — it’s a wake-up call in the face of a concerning trend. As per the International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics, over 60% of young women who develop gynecological conditions have a history of poor hygiene. The vagina — a gateway to reproductive health — when neglected, becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. These not only cause infections or irritation, but can also gradually alter cells and lead to cancer if left untreated.

What’s more frightening is that millions of women like Xiao Ya are unknowingly putting themselves at risk — lacking knowledge, dismissing wa:r:ning signs, and believing they’re “too young” for disease to strike.

What We Can Learn: How Women Can Protect Themselves from Gynecological Diseases

Xiao Ya’s story reminds all of us to take better care of our health and live more consciously. For women especially, below are essential practices to help prevent gynecological issues:

Maintain Proper Hygiene

Clean your intimate area daily with warm water, keep it dry and clean, and avoid harsh cleaning products.

Follow a Balanced Diet

Eat more vegetables and fruits, reduce oily and spicy foods, and boost your immune system.

Balance Work and Rest

Get enough sleep, avoid staying up late, manage stress, and maintain a positive mindset.

Have Regular Health Checkups

Schedule gynecological exams every 6 months or seek medical advice at the first sign of irregularities.

Life is a journey, and health is the sail that helps us move forward. Xiao Ya’s story is a wake-up call to all young people. Starting today, let’s take care of our bodies and protect our health — for our future, our happiness, and ourselves.